Outcomes 2 years after traumatic spinal cord injury in Botswana: a follow-up study

Prospective follow-up study.

To identify indicators leading to compliance with yearly controls (YCs) and to describe the clinical and functional outcomes 2 years after traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI).

The national SCI rehabilitation centre in Botswana.

Included in the study were all people who were admitted with a traumatic SCI during a 2-year period and survived to be discharged (n=38). Data were collected at the YCs and included demographic characteristics and clinical and functional outcomes. Comparisons were made between those who did or did not attend YCs and between those who did or did not develop pressure ulcers (PUs).

The follow-up rate was 71% (27/38) with higher attendance among those with complete injuries and those with secondary complications, especially pain. Age, gender, distance to the centre and education did not affect the follow-up rate. Self-catheterisation and suprapubic catheter were the preferred methods to manage neurogenic bladder dysfunction. Despite high rates of PUs (48%) and urinary tract infections (UTIs; 41%), no death had occurred during the follow-up period. Furthermore, one-third had resumed work.

Despite high rates of UTIs and PUs developed in the home environment, this study showed a high survival rate 2 years after traumatic SCI, which might be explained by the establishment of a specialised SCI unit and the high follow-up rate. In addition, the continuing contact with the SCI staff might have facilitated the relatively high return-to-work rate. Long-term follow-up seems possible even in resource-constrained settings with clearly stated objectives, transport, dedicated staff and well-educated patients and families.